Specialist tool needed to remove radiator?

JamesA · 20 Nov 2006

Are specialist plumber's tools needed to undo the radiator nuts so it can be removed?
I'm having difficulty using 2 adjustable spanners, I just can't seem to keep the valve still in order to be able to turn the nut.
I don't really want to have to go and buy plumbers tools if I can help it so if anyone can help I'd apreciate it.

They're pretty old radiators and so the nuts may have seized up.

EliteHeat · 20 Nov 2006

You're probably trying to tighten them up, try the other way. Once the valve is off you will realise that your problem has only just started! - he he

JamesA · 20 Nov 2006

I was going by what they said on a web site:
"The left hand nut will undo by turning the nut toward you, the right hand one will undo by turning it away from you"

I'll have another go the other way, but I don't I could move it that way either...

Nige F · 20 Nov 2006

you need an adjustable shaped like an F.....the horizontal bars are the adjust. jaws........that`ll hold the valve with a rag round to stop scratching

JamesA · 21 Nov 2006

Nige F said:
you need an adjustable shaped like an F.

Thanks. I'll think I'll get the plumber to do it when hes here next.
I suppose it would be a good investment though.

Slugbabydotcom · 21 Nov 2006

JamesA said:
I was going by what they said on a web site:
"The left hand nut will undo by turning the nut toward you, the right hand one will undo by turning it away from you"

I'll have another go the other way, but I don't I could move it that way either...

If you are an optimist you will think that the bit that moves towards or away you is the top of the nut. You will be succesful
If you are a pessimist you will think that the bit that moves towards or away from you is the bottom of the nut and you will be a failure

Waterpump pliers are a great all round tool so buy some. If you can get a pair of 10" worlwide™ waterpump pliers they are good value for money if not draper should do for a diyer. Dont buy the cheaper ones they are accidents waiting to happen

JamesA · 21 Nov 2006

I'll either get one from the DIY shop, or what do you think of the basic ones from Screwfix:
http://www.screwfix.com/app/sfd/cat/pro.jsp?cId=A335533&ts=16061&id=36446#

Nige F · 21 Nov 2006

You`ll still need the F`ing spanner OR a special holding tool for the valve body

those pliers are the same as an ordinary adjustable...except they open wider

by the time youve paid the postage .....go to PTS and get a tool....they cost £10.00

Slugbabydotcom · 22 Nov 2006

Well spotted nigef. Slight error you will need 2 pair of those or one pair and something to stop the valve from spinning / turn the nut

They look ok for the job to me

Don't know if everyone knows this but
Screwfix are opening trade counters all over the place.

ChrisR · 22 Nov 2006

Yes there's a Monument tool:

Slugbabydotcom · 22 Nov 2006

That picture

brought back a memory

I bought a special spanner just for use on Conex compression fitting nuts once. Used it a few times in 1983 when we had a bad winter and I was repairing burst pipes in outhouses for the council.

Come to think of it thats the last time I used it.

ChrisR · 22 Nov 2006

They still make a cast open ender I wouldn't be without. It fits where an adjustable won't go. They do a "flare nut" style one as well, not so useful, mine's, um, in the van, somewhere...

diynot

If you need to find a tradesperson to get your job done, please try our local search below, or if you are doing it yourself you can find suppliers local to you.

Select the supplier or trade you require, enter your location to begin your search.

Are you a trade or supplier? You can create your listing free at DIYnot Local

Specialist tool needed to remove radiator?

Similar threads